Ground-Up Restored Continental Restomod 5.0L Coyote V8 Automatic Leather A/C

Few cars capture the essence of "cool" like a Lincoln Continental convertible from the mid-1960s. It's an unmistakable silhouette, long, low, and unapologetically luxurious. But this 1965 Continental takes that legacy a step further, merging timeless style with a host of modern upgrades that bring it into the 21st century without losing the soul of what made it iconic in the first place.

This particular example underwent a comprehensive, ground-up restoration completed in 2020 by American Resto Mods of Buford, GA. The goal? To preserve the classic elegance and presence of the Continental, while subtly enhancing its drivability, comfort, and performance using today's best components. The result is a one-of-a-kind convertible that looks vintage but drives like a modern muscle machine.

Resprayed in its original Black Satin color, the finish is smooth, deep, and elegant, a perfect match for the Continental's sweeping lines and stately demeanor. All the chrome has been restored or replaced and after $18K in polishing work by Atlantic Coast Plating, it shines with mirror-like clarity. New rubber and weather stripping throughout ensures the car is sealed tight and rattle-free. A new front windshield adds to the fresh, factory-correct presentation. And of course, the signature rear-hinged suicide doors remain intact, one of the most beloved and distinctive design elements of the era. It rides on appropriately clean 20” Billet Specialties GS47 wheels, wrapped in Goodyear Eagle performance rubber on a square 245/45ZR20 set-up, giving the car a commanding presence.

The original powertrain has been replaced with a 5.0L Coyote crate engine, the same double overhead cam, fuel-injected V8 found in modern Mustangs, producing a healthy 420 horsepower. It's mated to a TCI Super Street Fighter 4R70W 4-speed automatic transmission, known for its crisp shifts and durability. Power flows to a Ford 9” rear end with 3.50 gears and a limited-slip differential, giving the car strong acceleration and great highway manners.

Beneath the surface, this Lincoln rides on Art Morrison chassis upgrades featuring a double A-arm front suspension and a 4-link rear setup, equipped with Penske coilovers at all four corners for a fully adjustable, performance-tuned ride. The steering has been modernized with power-assisted rack-and-pinion, making the big body easy and predictable to maneuver. Wilwood disc brakes front and rear provide confident, fade-free stopping power, with power assist for smooth operation. Everything underneath this car has been engineered with both comfort and capability in mind, it's the kind of restomod you can truly drive and enjoy.

Inside, the car is just as impressive with over $20K in work performed by Tim's Auto Upholstery of Duluth, GA. The cabin has been completely reimagined in custom black Italian leather, maintaining a clean and minimal aesthetic that complements the car's exterior. The bucket seats have been fully reconditioned and upgraded with 6-way power adjustment for maximum comfort. The dashboard has been redesigned with clean styling in mind, featuring a set of Dakota Digital VHX gauges that keep you informed without looking out of place. A Colorado Custom steering wheel adds a touch of billet class, and the custom center console flows seamlessly from the dash, housing Vintage Air climate controls and a Sony touchscreen head unit with SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and modern audio capabilities. All four power windows operate smoothly, and the power convertible top has been refitted with new cloth material and upgraded solid-state relays for reliable operation.

With just under 900 miles on the build, this Continental is barely broken in. It's more than a showpiece, it's a rolling expression of luxury and performance, tailored for someone who wants classic styling with modern usability. Whether it's on display at a car show or rolling through downtown on a Saturday night, it turns heads, starts conversations, and never goes out of style.

Key Highlights

* Coyote-Powered Continental Convertible Restomod
* Ground-up restoration completed in 2020
* Less than 900 miles since completion
* 5.0L "Coyote" DOHC V8
* TCI 4R70W 4-speed automatic transmission
* Ford 9" rear end
* Limited-slip differential
* Dual stainless steel exhaust
* Art Morrison double A-arm front suspension
* Art Morrison 4-link rear suspension
* Adjustable Penske coilovers front and rear
* Power four-wheel disc brakes
* Power rack-and-pinion steering
* Smoothed and custom fabricated engine compartment
* 20" Billet Specialties GS47 wheels
* Custom leather interior
* Modern climate control
* Touch-screen Sony headunit (SiriusXM and Bluetooth capable)
* Power convertible top with new cloth